12.16.2011

Weekend Wish: A Piece of Dame Taylor


While the world still mourns the loss of one of Old Hollywood's biggest legends, Dame Elizabeth Taylor, Christies auction house has put together sales of all of her belongings. From fashion to jewelry to art and everything in between, you can browse through the collection online. I spent my rainy afternoon ogling over the pieces and needless to say the woman had great taste. I especially loved seeing the wedding bands of her and Richard Burton (above), the many gorgeous caftans she was famous for wearing and some of the lovely mod looks from the sixties. The best part is there is an online auction going on until December 17th, so you can bid if you are dying for a piece of Elizabeth. 

My weekend wish is to channel some of this amazing glamour into my weekend, even just a touch. 

I am taking a couple weeks off to spend with my family and relax. So you will not be hearing much from me until the new year. I wish everyone the best of holidays and thank you for the support over 2011. It has been so much fun writing this blog, hearing from my readers, and sharing all these fun ideas and inspiration. I hope to bring you even more in the coming year and I hope you continue to visit. I truly am so grateful for it. 

xo
Erin 

12.15.2011

Bringing Back the Photo Collage

Remember the good old days when you would take pictures, bring the film or disposable camera in to be processed and pick up the images with so much anticipation you could hardly contain yourself? I miss those days. I miss them more for the the fact that I had honest to goodness pictures around to frame and pin onto a photo collage. 

And though those days are long gone, there are some creative and chic ways to bring back the photo collage, just like the days of dorm room living. 

Check out this amazing piece by photographer, Annie McElwain


She simply pulled some of her favorite images and made a collage for her home. I love the scale, the different colors and I am sure she gets so much satisfaction seeing her work in this fun way. 

And though your work may not be professional, you certainly have some fun images to display. Not to mention this helps you decide how to display all the amazing photos you have from that trip to Europe, your three year old growing up or even wedding pictures. 

I found a couple of options to make this work for us that do not have access to a professional photo display designer and printer. Snapfish offers a 20 x 30 that you can make yourself. Choose the pictures you want and the background (skip through the cheesy themed versions) and simply order. 

If you are an Instagram user (If not, and an iPhone user, visit your app store and start playing), this service is perfect. Printstagram will make you a 20 x 40 poster with up to 400 images from your Instagram app. They also have some other fun printing concepts to check out. 

I need to seriously start using my Instagram, because I am obsessed with this homemade art. For sure an upgrade from my beloved college photo collages still hanging out in my basement (priceless). 

xo
Erin 

12.13.2011

Destination: British Virgin Islands

I was introduced to this amazing place five years ago when I was dating my husband. His family has been traveling to the BVI forever and once I stepped onto the islands, I knew instantly why. If you are looking for a winter get away that will blow you away, let me introduce you to my favorite place on earth....
  

The British Virgin Islands is made up of many different, small islands that attracts Americans and Europeans alike. Especially those that enjoy the best sailing conditions in the world. Trade winds and calm water make it perfect for experienced sailors as well as first timers (I get sea sick easily and have yet to have had a problem here). What sets the BVI apart from the rest of the Caribbean, is that the islands are still very untouched and "island-y." No huge resorts and mega-condo buildings, just locals doing business and no shoes required. But with that island feel comes access to true luxury as well. 

To get there you can fly in from St. Thomas or Puerto Rico on a charter, like Island Birds. Private plane rentals and helicopters are also available and can make sense if you have a large group. You can also hop a ferry from St. Thomas, which is the most economical way albeit the longest. Most of the resorts offer rides from the airport, located on Tortola, and at the ferry stops when you arrive. Taxis are also readily available on all the islands.

I highly recommend staying on a charter boat in the BVI through the Moorings. If you have a sailing Captain in your group, you can bareboat, which means you can crew your own boat. If you do not they offer full service charters with a captain and cook, basically a four star hotel on the water. This allows you to see everything in the BVI and is so fun. Honestly, the most relaxed you may ever be is sailing through the channels with nothing surrounding you and just the sounds of the water. 

Staying on land is also a great option as there are plenty of ferries and charter boats to take you around the islands. I have stayed at all of the below options, which are all different ways to enjoy your stay. 


Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin Gorda Island in North Sound has an amazing location and feels like you are staying on the edge of the earth. North Sound is one of the best known spots to anchor for boats of every size. 


Little Dix Bay on Virgin Gorda Island is my favorite full service, luxury resort. Amazing restaurants, beautiful beaches and villas right on the water. It also has a great gym, running paths, tennis club and hiking right on the grounds to help you work off those pina coladas. 


Mango Bay Resort on Virgin Gorda Island offers villas right on the beach with huge living spaces and kitchens. There is a market nearby and jeeps to rent, which allows you to really live in the space. So fun to grill something for dinner and enjoy it right on your own veranda. 


Peter Island Resort is known as the most luxurious of all the hotels in the BVI. It is quiet, secluded, beautifully decorated and has everything you want from a full service resort. The Spa is gorgeous and the perfect place to relax. 


Surfsong Villa Resort is located on Tortola's Beef Island, close to the airport. The resort is very small and private and run by a lovely couple. The villas are gorgeous and right on the water. If you have a large group, you can rent out the entire resort. Could be perfect for your destination wedding...


Beach bars around the islands are not to be missed and obviously a great time. Like I said, no shoes required. Order Caribe beers or their takes on rum punch and start running on island time. The Willy T off Norman Island is a must. This infamous bar is full of people at night and did I mention it is on an old boat? So you have to take a dinghy there. Also on Norman is Pirates, which has it's own beach and is close to a ton of great snorkeling. Foxy's, Soggy Dollar, Sabre Rock and De Loose Mongoose (order the conch fritters) are other places to grab drinks. 

There are quite a few restaurants that we go back to since the service is great, food is fresh and you can enjoy a fantastic meal. The Last Resort off of Tortola is delicious and has live music on the weekends. Chez Bamboo on Virgin Gorda is also a local favorite with a creative menu and great wine list. The Sugar Mill restaurant at Little Dix Bay is the best fine dining I have had. Gorgeous setting and five star food. I would give the most unique meal to Cow Wreck Beach on Anegada. Call ahead for their fresh lobster dinner, served family style on the most gorgeous beach in the BVI. Bath & Turtle, Tamarind Club and Biras Creek are also all really great options. 

Scuba, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, hiking, the options are endless when it comes to activities. Your resort or charter company can arrange anything you need and direct you on where to go. Some of the places I think are worth the trip are the Baths on Virgin Gorda, Bubbly pool on Jost Van Dyke, and hike Gorda Peak National Park on Virgin Gorda. I am more a lay-on-the-beach type of girl, but these are all fun and worth the effort. 

Because hurricane season should be avoided, the best time to go is November through May. So this gives you the perfect opportunity to escape winter and soak up some sun. 

This will be my first winter not going and I am truly going to miss it. Once the babe comes, you know I will be figuring out the best way to enjoy this retreat for next year. 

If you have any other questions, please ask away! 

xo
Erin 

Chalkboard Wine Glasses

I am not exactly a DIY kind of girl. I have all the aspirations in the world to be crafty, but when it comes down to it, I usually just order something online that is already crafted up for me. 

If I was the kind of girl that wanted to do something Martha-esque and totally usable this holiday season, it would be to make these chalk board wine glasses...


A clever girl came up with the idea and another very clever girl actually put a tutorial up on her blog. Looks pretty darn easy and I may get around to it by the next party I throw. Inexpensive wine glasses are easy to find by the box and with some paint and tape you are in business. 

So perfect for a wine fest at your house, right? 

xoxo
Erin 

12.09.2011

Weekend Wishing: Paris





With a baby on the way, your mind wanders to places that seem a lot farther away then they once felt. Right now I am dreaming of the holidays in Paris and wondering when I will witness that again. 

Not that I think my life will be stopped dead with a baby, but a quick jaunt for shopping and cafe au laits will not come as easily as it once was. These images remind me of the beauty of the city and the magic of being bundled up, strolling the rues and enjoying a city with very few tourists. 

My wish this weekend is to find some of that magic in my own city and day dream of a holiday in Paris that includes one snuggled up little boy with rosy cheeks getting his first glimpse of a twinkling Eiffel tower. Now that feels a lot closer already. 

Happy Weekend! 
xoxo
Erin 

12.08.2011

Slip Into Something Fun

How would you like these warming your feet this winter? 


Love the prints, colors and shape. My current pair of Ugg slippers are super warm, but leave a lot to be desired in the looks department. These are much cuter and dare I say dainty? 

Are you still sporting a ratty, old pair that need replacing but you can't seem to let go? Please share....

xo
Erin 

12.06.2011

Gift Guide 2011: The Luxe Life

For those that have been extra nice this year or are searching for a classic item to treasure forever, here are my picks for an unforgettable holiday. While the price tags are higher, no girl would ever be able to thank you enough with one of these gifts under the tree. Crushing on all of it and hoping for a piece myself! 












1. Fendi Peekaboo satchel, classic Italian with function  
2. Theyskens' Theory Navy split back blazer, fantastic fit and cut 
3. Ileana Makri for The Row rose gold and diamond evil eye necklace, unreal and so cool 
4. Loeffler Randall classic slip on boot with shearling lining, stylish and warm 
5. Vintage Chanel medallion pendant necklace, insane 
6. Proenza Schouler pony PS1 satchel, color is amazing 
7. Max Mara Volare camel coat, so Jackie O in the 70s 
8. The Row acetate and leather sunglasses, a little Audrey and a little nerd 
9. Jimmy Choo Nude patent leather heels with cut outs, so versatile and flattering 
10. Diane von Furstenberg classic Jeanne wrap dress, a classic in a fun print 
11. Chloe multi-color envelope clutch, unexpected colors in such a great way 
12. Jennifer Meyer diamond Je t' aime necklace, so sweet and sparkly 
13. Dannijo printed iPhone case, why not when you use it every day? 
14. Alexander McQueen Britannia clutch with cross stitch detail, great color and accent piece 
15. Vintage Chanel gold coin multi-strand necklace, channeling Coco 
16. Christian Louboutin leopard toe platform pumps, classic design turned up a bit 
17. Hermes Enamel and gold H bracelet, perfect for stacking with what you have 


Send this list to whoever you think is feeling extra generous this year and wish for the best! 

xoxo
Erin 

One Stop Bling Shop

BaubleBar is such a great resource for your holiday shopping. They have tons of fantastic jewelry options at great prices. I like the vintage feel of some of the costume pieces and the modern takes on classic designs. They have something for everyone on your list and I have pulled some of my faves from their collection. 


1. Orchid Color block bangle $30
2. Turquoise enamel stacker $32 
3. Swedish Maze cuff $32
4. Royal Bengal cuff $34
5. Black mesh cuff $32 (obsessed)
6. Evil Eye bracelet $38
7. Twisted swirl gold cuff $175
8. Emerald Cabochon bracelet $185 (obsessed)
9. Honeycomb bangle $36
10. Circle Evil Eye bracelet $32
11. Pave link ring $92 (obsessed)
12. Lapis Quad ring $76 (obsessed)
13. Glacier Crystal cocktail ring $90
14. Black Block ring $82
15. Mixed shape mother of pearl drops $6
16. Aqua Boho drops $28
17. Serpentine Drop earrings $172 (obsessed)
18. Gold Pave studs $22
19. Honeybee Burst studs $65
20. Mixed metal lariat $125 
21. Circle Evil Eye charm pendant $46 (obsessed)
22. Monogrammed pendant $105
23. Maasai motif Seaside Strands $32
24. Zelda Sautoir $102
25. Bold Gold Cascade necklace $176 (obsessed)
26. Wishbone charm pendant $32

xo
Erin 

12.05.2011

Gift Guide 2011: Lounging Lady

Today's collection of gifts is what every girl who loves to lounge and be comfortable would love under the tree. Soft fabrics, cozy knits and some fun ways to get your relaxing on are easy go-to gifts since everyone could use a little luxury in their free time. 


1. DVF ear buds, cute and functional $25
2. J. Crew Silk pajama bottom $98 & top $108
3. Cole Haan leopard print slippers, never be afraid to wear slippers with company over again $188
4. Missoni hooded scarf, such pretty colors (sale) $152
5. Richard James cashmere striped socks $84
6. Joie draped stripe cardigan sweater $164
7. Can't Hardly Wait, bring back the memories of high school $11
8. Uncommon Goods face mug, cookies have found their home $18
9. White or Black T by Alexander Wang, so soft and better in larger sizes $76
10. Mary Green silk sleep mask, great for naps and preventing wrinkles $25
11. Cosabella soft jersey and lace robe $185
12. Haute Hippie over sized merino wool cable knit sweater $395
13. Nook in color, for books, mags, news and apps $250
14. New Balance custom running shoes, personalize with tons of color options $144

xo
Erin 

12.02.2011

Gift Guide 2011: Hostess with the Mostess

For the girl that either loves to entertain, spruce up her pad or just have a great time, here are some options for her holiday list.  

Bringing along any of these gifts to your hostess for overnight stays or a beautiful meal would also be much appreciated. I know I would love to see any of these show up at my door this year...

1. Personalized Lucite Tray from Saks $130
2. Polaroid Instant Camera with film, perfect party fun $99
3. Jonathan Adler elephant tea pot $110
4. Jo Malone Vintage Gardenia candle, gorgeous scent and votive $65
5. Initialed Pottery Barn stemless champagne flutes (set of 6) $45
6. CB2 modern stemless flutes $7
7. Furbish pink Moroccan tea glasses (set of 4) $32
8. The Essential Thomas Keller: The French Laundry & Ad Hoc at Home $85
9. Iomoi Monogrammed Cocktail Napkins (set of 4) $89
10. 18 inch monogrammed pillow cover from Etsy $26
11. Barefoot Contessa Cookbook Collection, 3 of her most loved books $68
12. Dior Couture coffee table book $115 
13. Jonathan Adler Jet Set Coasters (set of 4)
14. Bleeker Bar Ice Bucket with monogram $49
15. Vinturi Wine Aerator, no more waiting to "breath" $39
16. Mercury Votives from West Elm $5 each
17. Dwell Studio striped throw, super soft $150
18. Ethan Allen Brass serving tray, perfect for your bar $209
19. Chandelier photo from the MetOpera on Etsy $80
20. Salt Pig perfect for easy access to below $20
22. Sprinkles Cupcake Mix, just as good as the real thing $15

Happy Weekend and Happy Holiday Shopping! 
xo
Erin 

12.01.2011

Gift Guide 2011: Beauty Edition

Over the next week or so I will share some gift guides with you to help with your search for the perfect gifts for your loved ones and great ideas to add to your wish list. Sometimes it is hard to put your finger on what you actually want this holiday season and asking people can be tough. 

We start here with beauty finds that any girl would love. From some practical essentials to a few luxurious finds, I have tested all of them and can say that these are some of the best of the best.  


1. Clarisonic Mia Best beauty "gadget" that really works
2. & 3. Kiehl's Amino Acid shampoo and conditioner with coconut oil, smells amazing
4. Nars Yorokobi Super Orgasm Set, best overall shade in blush, gloss and polish
5. Marc by Marc Jacobs Rainbow Cosmetic Case
7. MoroccanOil, smells amazing and leads hair super soft and frizz free
8. Chanel No.5, classic and girlie
9. L'Occitane shea butter hand balm, perfect stocking stuffer
10. Bliss Triple Oxygen Trio, bring the ultimate facial home
11. Mason Pearson Brush, natural bristles for super shiny hair
12. Emi-Jay hair ties, lots of fun colors and do not pull your hair out 
13. Skinceuticals C E Ferulic Serum, high potency with maximum anti-aging power
14. Kiehl's Creme de Corps, luxurious and worth every penny
15. Beekman Lump of Kohl, all natural cleanser and a fun twist for the holidays

So many fun products out there and I would love any of these in my stocking to keep me looking (or trying to look) great in 2012. 

xo
Erin 

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